Gov’t to establish Air Corps’ first air station, begin operations
The Air Station will strengthen national defense by enhancing monitoring and protection of Maldivian airspace and the Exclusive Economic Zone through round-the-clock aerial surveillance
President Muizzu inspects UAV after the establishment of Air Corps (file photo)
President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has issued a decree regarding the establishment of the first Air Station of the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) Air Corps, marking a new phase in the country’s defense and surveillance capabilities.
The decree, announced on Monday, was issued under the powers granted to the president by Articles 106(b) and 115(t) of the Constitution of the Republic of Maldives, as well as Section 9 of Law No. 2008/1 (Armed Forces Act).
Under the directive, MNDF is tasked with establishing and commencing operations of the new Air Station.
The initiative has been designed to strengthen national defense by enhancing the monitoring and protection of Maldivian airspace and the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).
The Air Station will support round-the-clock aerial surveillance, operational readiness and the broader defense responsibilities of the Maldivian military.
The president initially established the MNDF Air Corps on 15 March 2024, through Presidential Decree No. 5/2024. Alongside the creation of the Air Corps, Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) were also introduced into military service to expand surveillance and operational capabilities.
